Ultradyne recently released its Apollo Max Muzzle Brake, specifically built to tame the recoil impulse generated by .308 Win. cartridges.

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The company claims to have utilized advanced imaging and precision instrumentation when developing the new muzzle device.

Ultradyne’s design utilizes what the company calls muzzle-rise compensation ports at the end of the muzzle brake. Additionally, these ports direct gasses away from the shooter’s line of sight. Further, each port is located, sized and shaped for maximum gas flow. The brake utilizes a combination of modeling and testing, according to Ultradyne.

Ultradyne further claims the the brake reaches a higher level of recoil reduction in a brake of this size. Also, the company credits this feat to a combination of applied science and engineering.

Each muzzle brake is CNC machined. Also, each one is built in the USA.

Moreover, for competition shooters, namely 3-Gun and practical rifle shooters, a better muzzle brake for recoil mitigation would be welcome. Because practical shooting is a speed-based sport, taming recoil is important. Firstly, better control of the rifle equals faster follow-up shots. But also, delivering less muzzle rise helps with target transitions as well.

Further, finding one under $100 will likely encourage shooters from these camps to check out the Apollo Max Muzzle Brake.

Finally, Ultradyne, located in Columbia, Missouri, produces muzzle brakes, iron sights and other parts designed for AR-type platforms.

For more information, visit ultradyneusa.com.

Ultradyne Apollo Max Muzzle Brake Specifications

• Caliber: .308 Win/7.62
• Barrel thread: 5/2×24 UNEF-2B
• Material: 416 stainless steel
• Finish: salt bath nitride
• Mounting: shrouded timing nut
• Weight: 4.1 ounces
• Length: 2.94 inches
• Outside diameter: 0.975 inches
• MSRP: $89

The post Ultradyne Apollo Max Muzzle Brake Tames .30-Caliber Recoil appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

I’ve been a gun writer for several years now, which has some advantages. One of the biggest is getting to see how various weapons systems evolve over time. Many designs come and go, but others stick around for years. The best remain largely unchanged outside of some cosmetic enhancements, or the materials or production methods will change. But occasionally you get a company that will go the extra mile to vastly improve one of its products. One of the best examples of this dedication to improvement is the LWRC International REPR (Rapid Engagement Precision Rifle) MKII in .308 Winchester/7.62mm NATO.

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LWRC International REPR

LWRC International developed a proprietary short-stroke gas piston operating system  that is recognized worldwide as being one of the most robust and reliable on the market. Dedicated to professionals for years, LWRCI’s 5.56mm NATO and 6.8 SPC rifles have withstood the harshest conditions, offering excellent accuracy and unparalleled reliability. Thus, military units, law enforcement personnel and other professionals pushed the company to create a larger-caliber rifle with the same qualities. In 2010, I tested LWRCI’s first REPR. Designed as a semi-automatic precision rifle, it was very accurate, and its reliability was better than most of the competition at the time. Featuring a left-side charging handle, it was a tad heavy; it proved to be a good weapon.

The platform saw incremental improvements until the U.S. Army’s Compact Semi-Automatic Sniper System (CSASS) program came along, resulting in a completely new rifle. I first got my hands on the REPR MKII for testing in 2017, and it was a whole different ball game. The gun was so light that I thought LWRC International had sent me a 5.56mm by mistake. Removing it from the box, it looked more like a hand-built custom rifle than something mass-produced for combat. Everything about it was improved, including its inherent accuracy. And I didn’t think the gun could get any better until LWRCI decided to offer it with a Proof Research carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel earlier this year. Luckily, I was able to pit the best AR-style rifles against each other, head to head, for sister publication Ballistic’s Best, giving me a chance to really wring out LWRCI’s latest and greatest.

A Closer Look

The first thing I noticed about my test rifle was its expertly applied tungsten Cerakote finish. Also, the fit and finish were superb, starting with the Monoforge upper receiver. Moreover, the rifle came with a 16-inch Proof Research carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel with a 1-in-10-inch twist rate and LWRCI’s four-port Ultra muzzle brake. This barrel weighs about half a pound less than its all-steel brethren.

The Monoforge name comes from the fact that the handguard and upper receiver are designed as one integral component. Here the handguard has dozens of lightening cuts as well as a full-length Picatinny rail on top. The sides and bottom have more slots for accessories, and removing two screws at the front allows you to remove the entire top portion of the handguard so you can easily access the gas system. Two short rail segments were included with my test rifle along with a QD sling mount/rail combination unit.

While most piston-driven rifles in this caliber have adjustable gas blocks, they typically only offer three different positions: suppressed, unsuppressed and off. The REPR MKII’s gas block features adjustability to 20 different positions, allowing you to really fine-tune the gun for specific loads and conditions. Another enhancement is the upgraded bolt carrier group, which is coated for ease of cleaning and reliability in harsh environments, and LWRCI includes a set of its Skirmish backup sights.

The charging handle, magazine release, bolt catch and safety are all ambidextrous. The forged lower receiver also features an enlarged, integral triggerguard, a two-stage Geissele Super Semi-Automatic Enhanced (SSA-E) trigger, a Magpul MOE+ pistol grip and an adjustable Magpul UBR stock that provides a solid cheekweld as well as a storage compartment. Finally, each rifle comes with a 20-round PMag.

Only The Best

As I said, the REPR MKII’s initial test came in Ballistic’s Best, where it competed against 17 other semi-automatic rifles in either 5.56mm or 7.62mm NATO. Four independent evaluators put each rifle through its paces over two days, assigning a score for a number of categories, including accuracy, ergonomics and reliability. And of all the guns, the REPR MKII was the hands-down winner. Every evaluator scored it as the best rifle they tested. The fit and finish even exceeded that of the only custom rifle in the contest. Its accuracy and ergonomics also contributed, and it outscored every rifle. The only negative came in the “Value/Price” category, as it was the most expensive at $4,670. But we all agreed that it was worth the money. One evaluator said, “It costs a ton, but it delivers. It may be the best .308 rifle I’ve ever used.”

Heading to the Range

For this article, I hit the range again and added some new equipment. For targeting, I installed a Bushnell 4.5-30x50mm Elite Tactical XRS II scope in a ZRODelta mount. With its H59 reticle and relatively compact dimensions, this Bushnell scope is versatile and easy to use. I got to see the LWRCI Ultra muzzle brake in action during the initial test, and while it was fantastic at reducing recoil, it was also loud and packed quite a blast. Since this test included running the gun around urban obstacles like walls and cars, I replaced the brake with the NG² Defense MZLMAX. This device sends all of the blast forward, away from the shooter and his or her neighbors. It mitigates recoil and flash very well.

I’m a big fan of offset sights, so I replaced the Skirmish backup sights with a set of Fail Safe Angle sights from Griffin Armament. These work well for close-quarters work—you just roll the rifle and go. I also added an extended buttpad to the Magpul UBR stock and installed an Atlas bipod with a ZRODelta DCLW Head-S mount. I also used a Feisol tripod for some shooting positions.

LWRC International REPR MKII Shooting

My groups at 100 yards were truly impressive, matching what I could produce with the best bolt-action precision rifles. I was able to cluster five Barnes 130-grain TTSX rounds into half an inch, and the gun did pretty much the same thing with Black Hills’ 178-grain ELD-Xs and DoubleTap’s 125-grain Ballistic Tips. Moving out to 300 yards, the best groups—all in the 2.5-inch range—came from the Colt 155-grain TMK and Hornady 155-grain A-MAX loads. The latter seems to be the best “all-around” load, and it would be my primary ammo if I used this rifle on duty.

Extending the range to 855 yards, the Black Hills 178-grain ELD-X ammo gained ground with its higher ballistic coefficient and heavier weight. Overall, this load was the most consistent at 855 and 1,000 yards, bucking the wind better and holding a tighter “cone” of accuracy even with its low velocity. I rarely missed my 12-inch steel target, and if I did, it was mostly due to the wind. Shooting quickly at 700 yards—as fast as I could reacquire the target—I was able to pull 10 shots of 10 on a full-sized IPSC steel target. Both of the 155-grain loads did pretty much the same thing at 855 yards but lost some gas at 1,000 yards.

Bottom Line: LWRC International REPR MKII

The REPR MKII’s controls are easy to reach from either side, and it’s easy to reload from just about any position. You can even speed things up a bit by holding the bolt open on the off-hand side and then releasing it on the strong side. This rifle is at home as a designated marksman rifle (DMR), shooting from prone or close quarters, working in and around vehicles and obstacles. With the NG² MZLMAX, I could shoot under my car, next to the fender and around walls without getting any blast or debris in my face. This is just about perfect for real work.

This is the lightest of the REPRs so far, but at around 13 pounds fully loaded and equipped, you can get lighter guns. I’m not sure they would come close to this rifle’s ruggedness or reliability, though. None of the other piston-driven rifles in this class match the REPR MKII’s features.

One thing is certain: This rifle will do anything anyone might ever need to do with a rifle at any realistic range. Hunting, law enforcement countersniping, long-range competition—LWRCI’s REPR MKII does it all and looks really good while doing it!

For more information, visit lwrci.com.

LWRC International REPR MKII Specifications

• Caliber: 7.62mm NATO
• Barrel: 16 inches
• OA Length: 34.8-37.6 inches
• Weight: 9 pounds (empty)
• Stock: Magpul UBR
• Sights: LWRCI Skirmish
• Action: Piston-operated semi-auto
• Finish: Tungsten Cerakote
• Capacity: 20+1
• MSRP: $4,670

Performance: LWRC International REPR MKII

Load                                       Velocity         Accuracy    

Barnes 130 VOR-TX                2,986              0.54

Black Hills 178 ELD-X            2,470              0.72

Colt 155 TMK                         2,650              0.60

DoubleTap 125 Ballistic Tip   2,750              0.65

Hornady 155 Black A-MAX     2,700              0.60         

Bullet weight measured in grains; velocity in fps by chronograph; and accuracy in inches for best five-shot groups at 100 yards.

This article is from the 2019 issue of Black Guns magazine. Grab your copy at OutdoorGroupStore.com.

The post GUN TEST: Return of the LWRC International REPR MKII appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Auto-Ordnance is no stranger to historic firearms. Part of the Kahr Firearms Group, you probably know the Auto-Ordnance name because it manufacturers world-class Tommy Guns. But the company also creates quality 1911s, and it recently unveiled a line of special-edition 1911s that should interest all the history buffs out there. Models include a casehardened 1911 with “U.S.” grips as well as Fly Girls, Victory Girls and Squadron variants. I recently got my hands on the Auto-Ordnance Squadron for testing at the Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous in Montana.

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The Auto-Ordnance Squadron features striking attention to detail. You’ll find custom-engraved panel lines and small dimples that look like rivets along the slide and frame, giving the gun a pieced-together appearance like a World War II fighter plane. The detailing on the checkered wooden grips makes them look nearly identical to those found on original M1911A1 pistols carried by U.S. soldiers. You’ll also find vertical rear serrations and the U.S. Army Air Corps insignia on both sides of the frame.

But the most noticeable touch would have to be the shark Cerakoted onto the slide near the muzzle, like popular “nose art” of the era. Nose art was originally started by the Italians and Germans to help distinguish friend from foe in flight, and the U.S. Army Air Corps adopted the idea. But, in true red-blooded American fashion, the squadrons took unique liberties, bending the rules and muddling the original intention to turn this once-practical method into something that made each squadron stand out in its own way, and it became a symbol of unit pride.

Auto-Ordnance Squadron 1911 On the Range

Not only is this particular 1911 attractive—and a worthy nod to the sacrifice and bravery of our pilots—but it also functions with the quality you’d expect from all Kahr/Auto-Ordnance 1911s. The .45 ACP recoil is minimal due to the pistol’s weight, with very little muzzle rise. This makes it easy to be accurate and consistent on the range.

Of course, I didn’t get enough time behind the gun to measure its reliability, but 1911s are known for being workhorses, and I personally believe every gun owner and collector should have at least one in their arsenal. Firing Auto-Ordnance’s Squadron Special Edition feels as if you’re stepping back in time or partaking in WWII. The weight, handling and iron sights feel old school—and that’s because they are! This why the 1911 is so appealing in the first place. So take the plunge and grab a piece of history. The Squadron 1911 isn’t too fancy or over the top—just quality, American-made engineering.

For more information, visit auto-ordnance.com.

Auto-Ordnance Squadron 1911 Specifications

• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Barrel: 5 inches
• OA Length: 8.5 inches
• Weight: 39 ounces (empty)
• Grips: Checkered wood
• Sights: Blade front, adjustable rear
• Action: SA
• Finish: Cerakote
• Capacity: 7+1
• MSRP: $1,106

The post Gun Test: The WW2 Fighter Plane Auto-Ordnance Squadron 1911 appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

The new Mossberg Retrograde Series of pump-action shotguns includes two new models, the 500 Persuader Retrograde and 590A1 Retrograde. Also, the two Mossberg Retrograde Series guns commemorate the company’s 100th anniversary in 2019.

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Firstly, Mossberg highlights features from two of the most iconic police and military pump-action shotguns in history. As a result, bringing back the look and feel of the walnut stock and matching corncob fore-end creates a unique shotgun line.

Mossberg, after more than 50 years of production, has built more than 12 million shotguns on the 500 platform, an extraordinary number. Moreover, the only pump-action shotgun to pass the U.S. military’s Mil-Spec tests, the 500 has proven tough and reliable.

Mossberg Retrograde Series Features

Both the 500 Persuader Retrograde and 590A1 Retrograde feature Mossberg’s combination of non-binding twin action bars, dual extractors, positive steel-to-steel lock-up and anti-jam elevator. Also, the anodized aluminum receivers and ambidextrous top-mounted safety should be familiar to Mossberg fans.

The 500 Persuader Retrograde utilizes an 18.5-inch barrel, cylinder bore and is topped with a dingle front brass bead sight. Also, the 590A1 is built to Mil-Spec standards, has a nine-round magazine capacity, 20-inch heavy-walled barrel, heat shield, bayonet lug and ghost ring sights.

Above all, each model stands out with the timeless wood furniture and corncob fore-end. The 500 Persuader Retrograde retails for $504, while the 590A1 Retrograde comes in at $902.

For more information, visit www.mossberg.com.

Mossberg Retrograde Series Specifications

• Model: 500 Persuader 6-Shot
• Chamber: 12 gauge, 3 inch
• Capacity: 6
• Barrel/Finish: 18.5 inches, blued
• Sights: Bead
• Chokes: Cylinder Bore
• Overall Length: 39.5 inches
• Overall Length of Pull: 14.5 inches
• Stock: Walnut
• Weight: 6.25 pounds
• MSRP: $504

• Model: 590A1 9-Shot
• Chamber: 12 gauge, 3 inch
• Capacity: 9
• Barrel/Finish: 20 inches, Heavy-Walled Parkerized
• Chokes: Cylinder Bore
• Overall Length: 41 inches
• Overall Length of Pull: 14.5 inches
• Stock: Walnut
• Weight: 7.25 pounds
• MSRP: $902

The post FIRST LOOK: Mossberg Retrograde Series Shotguns appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

The Walther Q5 Match is built for speed, designed as a competition-ready pistol versatile enough to race in several disciplines. As such, the Walther Q5 Match is recognized as fitting the requirements for IDPA Stock Service Pistol, USPSA Production and Carry Optics as well as most 3-Gun rulesets.

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Steadily growing its presence in competition shooting in recent years, especially practical pistol, the Walther Q5 Match delivers a match-ready pistol equal to that support. For instance, the company recently established a contingency program in 2017, matching the commitment Walther continues to give at the match level.

Walther doubled down on that support with the addition of the Q5 Match, a pistol based on the company’s popular PPQ platform. We caught up with Walther at this year’s Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous, and the Q5 Match did not disappoint.

Walther Q5 Match Features

Designed to compete, the Q5 Match delivers several features sure to be welcome by shooters. Forward slide cuts lighten the overall slide weight, dampening the effect of felt recoil. Also, the cuts aid in barrel cooling.

A red fiber-optic front sight pairs with an adjustable rear target sight. Also, Walther provides three additional mounting plates included, fitting Trijicon, Leupold and Docter, for those wishing to use optics.

A corrosion-resistant Tenifer coating protects the slide, barrel and internal action parts. Meanwhile, a non-slip grip surface encourages positive control.

An ambidextrous slide stop is well-placed for reach, while the magazine release can be placed on either the left or right side of the frame.

Walther touts its single-stage trigger as being one of the best in this class. Consequently, the 5.6-pound trigger requires only 0.4 inches of travel with a mere 0.1-inch reset.

In keeping with its match-ready theme, the Q5 Match ships with three 15-round magazines.

For more information, visit waltherarms.com.

Walther Q5 Match Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel Length: 5 inches
• Trigger Pull: 5.6 pounds
• Trigger Travel: 0.4 inches
• Capacity: 15 rounds
• Overall Length: 8.1 inches
• Height: 5.3 inches
• Width: 1.3 inches
• Weight: 27.9 ounces (empty)
• MSRP: $849

The post WATCH: How Fast Is the Walther Q5 Match Pistol? appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

In today’s world of a watered-down AR-15 market, the cream rises to the top. In that regard, the new Luth AR Mark12 Barrel AR Kit was impressive. We got a first look recently during the 2018 Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous.

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Don’t let the name underwhelm you. Though it’s called a barrel kit, this collection of high-end parts provides everything you need to build a precision AR-15 in 5.56mm. As such, the kit lacks only a stripped receiver. Further, build feature within Luth-AR’s website offers several component upgrades throughout the checkout process.

“All you need to get is your stripped lower receiver and you’ll be going with a precision rifle again,” said Luth-AR’s Dustin Emholtz.

Luth AR Mark12 Features

The heart of this kit is the 18-inch, 4140 chrome moly Mark12 5.56 barrel. Additionally, it is button broached, features a 1:9 righthand twist, with six lands and grooves. Further, the barrel utilizes a 1/2×28 thread pattern, perfect for common aftermarket accessories.

To promote long-range shooting, the package includes the company’s 15-inch Key Mod Palm Handguard, including the barrel nut. An A3 upper receiver ties it all together.

A fully assembled bolt carrier, standard gas tube and .750 gas block complete the upper’s internals. An A2 flash hider also comes with the kit.

Meanwhile, shooters get to pick between two of the company’s popular MBA buttstocks, the very product that relaunched the Luth name back into the AR world. The MBA-1, a fixed unit, or MBA-3, an adjustable model, deliver solid ergonomics and tremendous versatility for an AR-type rifle.

Component upgrades include Velocity Trigger, Chubby Grip, Paddle Oversize Bolt Catch, The Switch Extended Selector, Wide Body Trigger Guard and The Trigger Trainer.

Complete 18-inch Mark12 AR Rifle Kits range in price from $529.99 to $544.99, depending on the MBA stock selection.

For more information, visit luth-ar.com.

The post WATCH: Testing the LUTH AR Mark12 Complete Upper Barrel Assembly appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

As I drove under the raven gate at Gunsite Academy, I thought to myself, “These are the kind of events that make being a gun writer worthwhile.” An invitation passed from Ruger to one of my editors ended up in my lap, and I jumped at the chance to go.

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“We’ve introduced at least 40 new products a year for the last few years,” said Paul Pluff, Ruger’s public relations manager. “Ruger does new product launches differently from most manufacturers. We try to have between two and 10,000 of the new products ready to ship to distributors before we make the announcement.”

Ruger Security-9

First up was the new Security-9 pistol. Many years ago, Ruger introduced the Security-Six revolver—a nearly indestructible .357 Magnum that was priced significantly below comparable Colt and S&W products. The gun was popular with private security companies who needed a workhorse revolver at an economical price.

Brandon Trevino, Ruger’s product manager, said, “The Security-9 is not meant to be a subcompact. We designed it to approximate the Glock 19’s dimensions and made it a mid-sized gun. It’s big enough to shoot well—without compromise—and small enough to carry without being burdensome.”

The Security-9 is, of course, named for its 9mm chambering, and it uses double-stack 15-round magazines. Two come with the gun, which also has a 4-inch barrel and a polymer frame.

Ruger spent a great deal of effort to make the Security-9’s frame as ergonomic as possible. It has a very comfortable grip angle and excellent texturing for a secure hold. It also boasts an accessory rail for lights and lasers and has a one-piece, full-length hardcoat anodized aluminum chassis to keep all of the fire control components in proper orientation.

Trevino said, “More than 1.6 million Ruger LCPs have been sold, and the one constant criticism we heard was that the trigger could be better. So, we leveraged the knowledge gained from the LCP to design the Security-9’s trigger.”

Security-9 Features

Despite the size approximation to the Glock 19, the Security-9 is not a striker-fired gun. Its mechanics are very similar to that of the LCP, and it uses a pre-cocked hammer with a lot more engagement on the sear. The result is a very serviceable, crisp trigger pull with a positive reset. It almost feels like a single action. The Security-9 also possesses a manual thumb safety located in the familiar 1911 position. Gunsite’s instructors left it up to us as to whether we wanted to use the safety or just run the guns like Glocks.

Using supplied Blade-Tech holsters, we adjourned to the range, where we were introduced to Jeff Cooper’s step-by-step drawstroke from the holster. From there, we practiced controlled pairs followed by failure-to-stop drills. Hornady supplied us with plenty of its 115-grain Critical Defense FTX rounds, and the Security-9s ran flawlessly. The gun was comfortable to shoot and pointed naturally, and everyone seemed to like the trigger.

After lunch, we returned to the range to find that Jeff Hoskinson of MGM Targets had set up new Steel Challenge Plate Racks. We ran a number of exercises with the MGM steel and even had a man-on-man shoot-off before moving over to Gunsite’s “Urban Scrambler,” a field course designed to test a shooter’s ability to use cover while firing from unconventional positions, reloading where necessary and moving as rapidly as possible between targets. Trevino and Pluff then set up a USPSA-style course afterwards, and we each took turns running the high-round-count stage with yours truly coming in first place! The first day was long, and we each put at least 300 rounds through Security-9s without any major problems.

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Ruger PC Carbine

The next day we were introduced to Frank Saunders, the principal design engineer of Ruger’s new Pistol-Caliber (PC) Carbine. This is a completely new semi-auto chambered for the 9mm. It has a takedown design similar to the Ruger 10/22 Takedown’s and has a rigid synthetic stock that comes with spacers so you can adjust the length of pull from 12.38 to 14.13 inches. With the magazine removed and the bolt locked back, depressing the takedown release and twisting the forend a quarter-turn clockwise allows you to separate the barrel/forend from the receiver. It’s quick and easy, and reassembly is just as simple.

A big selling point of the new PC Carbine is that it can use either Ruger SR9 or Security-9 magazines. By changing out the magazine well module with the included Glock mag well, the PC Carbine can take 9mm Glock magazines. Since we were already using the Security-9s, we continued to use these magazines in the PC Carbine. The carbine currently ships with one 17-round SR9 magazine.

The new carbine is blowback operated and uses what Ruger calls a “dead blow” action. A tungsten weight, nearly as heavy as the bolt itself, floats freely in the bolt assembly, essentially reducing the length of the bolt stroke and greatly reducing felt recoil and muzzle lift. The bolt’s charging handle can be changed to the left side if desired, and the magazine release is also reversible, making the PC Carbine southpaw friendly.

Ruger machines the receiver from 7075-T6 aluminum, and it has a Picatinny rail on top for optics. Also, the fluted, 16.12-inch barrel comes with 1/2×28-tpi muzzle threading for those who want to suppress their PC Carbines.

Shooting the PC Carbine

We spent our first range session sighting in the carbines at 50 yards. The rear sight is a ghost ring that can be adjusted for windage and elevation by loosening setscrews. I didn’t think I’d like this system at first but found it to be relatively fast and very accurate. From the prone position, my groups with Hornady’s 115-grain Critical Defense rounds were tighter than 1.5 inches.

Like the pistol, we used the carbine in a number of different range scenarios and courses. We shot MGM steel targets and ran the Scrambler course of fire. Then we ended our day with an informal competition among the shooters that involved a great deal of ammunition and more steel targets. In the end, I think it’s safe to say that most of us put at least 500 rounds through our carbines that day. I don’t recall any of us having a stoppage or problem of any sort, even after coating the guns with a dusting of Gunsite grit while firing the guns from prone.

Ruger Precision Rimfire

I was chomping at the bit to get my hands on Ruger’s last product at the event, the Precision Rimfire. Also, it is similar to the super-accurate-yet-budget-priced Precision Rifle. It’s designed to give competitors the same feel as their centerfire competition guns.

With the Precision Rimfire, you can adjust the bolt throw; it can be short—just long enough to eject an empty casing and chamber a new one—or the same 3-inch bolt travel as its centerfire counterpart. The bolt handle itself has a big knob just like the centerfire model’s. Ruger uses a free-floating M-LOK handguard, and the hammer-forged, 18-inch barrel sports a match chamber and muzzle threading. And, realizing that competitors may want to upgrade their barrel at some point, Ruger engineers designed the barrel to be replaceable. The receiver also features a 30-MOA top rail, and the chassis is molded from rigid glass-filled nylon.

The buttstock is adjustable for both length of pull and comb height. As for controls, Ruger uses the same safety selector and trigger used on the centerfire Precision Rifle. There’s even a spot in the stock that holds an Allen wrench to adjust the trigger. Finally, the Ruger Precision Rimfire uses 10/22 magazines and comes with one 15-round BX-15 magazine.

Shawn Skipper from Leupold was there, and each of our sample rifles wore a serious piece of glass. Mine had a Leupold 4-12x40mm VX-Freedom scope, and B&T Industries supplied Atlas bipods. We zeroed our rifles at 100 yards using subsonic 40-grain Eley ammo that clocked in at 1,080 fps from the Precision Rimfire’s 18-inch barrel.

Shooting the Precision Rimfire

Our test rifles also sported Ruger Silent-SR suppressors, allowing us to shoot without any hearing protection. After zeroing in, most of my groups were around an inch wide despite the wind. Under better conditions and shooting from a bench, I think Precision Rimfire would be closer to a 0.5-MOA rifle.

Hoskinson set up numerous steel targets along the Urban Scrambler at ranges under 100 yards; they were all easy to hit. The hardest part was getting into position and obtaining a solid rest with the rifle. One difficult setup involved shooting a pendulum-style target from a simulated pitched rooftop at about 80 yards. The target array consisted of four rimfire targets ranging from 4 inches in diameter all the way down to an inch. Of course, the smallest target was the most difficult to hit, but I managed to do so on my first shot.

There’s nothing more fun than shooting a .22, but it’s even better when you use a super-accurate rifle like the Ruger Precision Rimfire. Whether it’s used strictly for competition or just to keep your skills sharp on a shortened range, this new Ruger should prove just as popular as its centerfire counterpart.

It’s hard to keep up with Ruger and all of its new products. Launching something new approximately every 10 days makes it likely that you’ll find something that suits your taste in firearms.

For more information, visit ruger.com.

PC Carbine Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel: 16.12 inches
• OA Length: 34.37 inches
• Weight: 6.8 pounds (empty)
• Stock: Synthetic
• Sights: Blade front, adjustable rear
• Action: Blowback-operated semi-auto
• Finish: Matte black
• Capacity: 17+1
• MSRP: $649

Precision Rimfire Specifications

• Caliber: .22 LR
• Barrel: 18 inches
• OA Length: 35.13-38.63 inches
• Weight: 6.8 pounds (empty)
• Stock: Adjustable
• Sights: None
• Action: Blowback-operated semi-auto
• Finish: Matte black
• Capacity: 15+1
• MSRP: $529

Security-9 Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm
• Barrel: 4 inches
• OA Length: 7.24 inches
• Weight: 23.7 ounces (empty)
• Grip: Glass-filled nylon
• Sights: White-dot front, outlined rear
• Action: DAO
• Finish: Matte black
• Capacity: 15+1
• MSRP: $379

This article is from the November-December 2018 issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at OutdoorGroupStore.com.

The post GUN TEST: Running 3 New Models From Ruger at Gunsite appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Wilson Combat recently announced the release of the Paul Howe Package for Gen 4 Glock 19 and 26 pistols. Moreover, the package provides significant upgrades to two popular Glock models for conceal carry.

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The Paul Howe Package for Glock features a fitted match-accurate Wilson Combat barrel. Additionally, the barrel is oversized, promoting the best possible accuracy, according to Wilson Combat.

A smooth, 4.5-pound action tune highlights internal upgrades. Meanwhile, the undercut trigger guard promotes a more secure grip. Additionally, Wilson Combat Square Notch Battlesight and AmeriGlo Tritium with green outline front sights improve the sighting system.

The frame utilizes what Wilson Combat calls its Starburst stippling pattern. Also, the top of the slide exhibits Wilson Combat’s new Wide Slide serration pattern. Further, the trigger guard features a smooth undercut. Finally, the extended backstrap pin prevents loosening under extreme use.

Above all, the Paul Howe Package for Glocks pistols attempts to bring match-grade accuracy while maintaining the reliability for which Glocks are known. And it does so in highly concealable models, the Glock 19 and 26.

Master Sgt. Paul Howe

Howe’s experience serves the project well, because the retired Army Master Sergeant brings 20 years of military service, 10 of which were in Special Operations. Howe is known for his role in the Battle of Mogadishu, the story brought to life in “Blackhawk Down.” Further, Howe continues to work as a high-risk training instructor, becoming a leading expert on close quarters combat, along with law enforcement and military weapons and tactics.

Firstly, Paul Howe is a high-risk training instructor that served 20 years in the US Army, ten of those in Special Operations. He served as a Tactical Team Leader in multiple combat operations and Senior firearms Instructor while assigned to a tier-one unit of US Army Special Operations. During his service and since his retirement he has become one of the most sought-after experts on close quarters combat and law enforcement/military small arms weapons and tactics in the world.

For more information, visit wilsoncombat.com.

Wilson Combat Paul Howe Package Specifications

• Available Calibers: 9mm
• Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds (GLOCK 19), 10 rounds (GLOCK 26)
• GLOCK Gen 4
• Full Fit Wilson Combat Barrel
• Stippled Starburst Pattern Frame
• Stippled Thumb Pads, Wilson Combat Logo
• Paul Howe Cut on Trigger Guard 4.5-pound Action Tune
• Black Armor-Tuff Slide CSAT Logo on Slide
• Wilson Combat Square Notch Battlesight with AmeriGlo Tritium with Green Outline Front Sight
• Paul Howe Wide Slide Top Serrations Extra Long Back Strap Pin
• MSRP: Starts at $1,500

The post Wilson Combat Releases Paul Howe Package for Glock 19, 26 Pistols appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

CMMG has become a company dedicated to what I call simple innovation. Its Mk47 Mutant was a simple solution for those clamoring for a reliable 7.62x39mm AR-platform rifle capable of using AK-style magazines. With this series, CMMG wisely decided to start with a .308-based bolt and then build the entire system around it, resulting in some of the most accurate and reliable 7.62x39mm semi-autos available. The company then expanded on its PowerBolt design to create rifles in .458 SOCOM, then 6.5 Grendel.

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Of course, it’s also important to note that while CMMG keeps innovating, it does so without charging exorbitant prices, which isn’t always the case with firearms manufacturers. So when CMMG decided to create some truly compact AR-platform pistols and carbines, it’s no surprise that the company did it right.

Meet The MkG Banshee AR Pistol

The new Banshee series include short-barreled rifles (SBRs) and pistols in 9mm, .45 ACP and 300 Blackout with some of the shortest barrels available. State-of-the-art weapons, each Banshee is versatile enough for home defense, competition or just plain fun on the range. They’re also incredibly lightweight and portable, which should make them pretty popular with today’s shooters.

The 9mm and .45 ACP Banshees feed from factory Glock magazines and utilize CMMG’s patent-pending “Radial-Delayed” blowback operating system. The benefit of this system is that it allows the gun to use a lighter buffer and carrier than a typical straight-blowback design. This reduction in reciprocating mass ensures that both the 9mm and .45 ACP versions of the Banshee are easily controllable.

These pistols also come with ambidextrous charging handles, sling plates and safeties as well as Tailhook Mod 2 arm braces from Gear Head Works. This polymer arm brace uses a proprietary buffer tube that allows for five different length-of-pull positions. After you find the right length to fit your arm, you can then release the hook to wrap around your forearm.

I got my hands on a .45 ACP Banshee AR Pistol for testing, and it sported a 5-inch, 4140 chrome-moly barrel with .578×28-tpi muzzle threading for devices like suppressors, and a knurled thread protector was included. Surrounding the barrel is CMMG’s RML4 handguard, which features a full-length top rail, M-LOK slots on the sides and a hand stop on the bottom to prevent your support hand from going too far forward.

Banshee AR Pistol Features

While the upper receiver is forged from 7075-T6 aluminum, the lower is machined from a billet of the same material. CMMG then installs a mil-spec-style single-stage trigger as well as a Magpul MOE pistol grip. As mentioned, the safety and magazine release are ambidextrous, and the magazine well is flared for quick reloading with .45 ACP Glock magazines.

While the barrel and smaller parts were left black on my test pistol, the receivers were finished in durable Burnt Bronze Cerakote, and CMMG included a single 13-round Glock 21 magazine.

For targeting, I added one of Sig Sauer’s ROMEO3 reflex sights. Equipped with a mount to co-witness with AR sights, the ROMEO3 has become one of my favorites. You can easily adjust the reticle’s brightness with simple buttons on the side, and you can replace the battery without removing the sight from the gun. An Allen wrench is all that is needed to adjust for windage or elevation and lock the adjustments in place. For backup sights, I installed a fixed front sight and flip-up rear sight from Sig Sauer. I also used one of Magpul’s MS3 slings when necessary.

I ran the Banshee AR Pistol with an Alpha Dog .45 ACP suppressor for much of the testing. This is a very quiet can that weighs only 10.6 ounces. What makes it truly unique is that one side has a Picatinny rail that can be used as a mounting platform for sights when turned upward or lights and lasers when left downward. Simply thread the Alpha Dog on and then line up the rail to your position of choice. It’s made primarily of aluminum, so it’s durable without adding too much weight toward the front of your weapon.

Banshee AR Pistol Ringing Steel

Back when I was part of my local police department’s SWAT team, one of entry weapons was the Heckler & Koch UMP in .45 ACP. It was very accurate. In fact, it was more accurate than our previous 9mm weapons. Just using iron sights, I could easily cluster every round into one ragged hole at 15 yards. With a red-dot sight in place, I could get the same results at 25 yards, and I regularly put 10 rounds into a group just over an inch wide at 50 yards.

The Banshee performed similarly. Using a bag as a rest on a bench, I was able to put five Barnes 185-grain TAC-XPD rounds into about half an inch at 25 yards. Moving back to 50 yards, my groups were still less than an inch wide. The Banshee was very light on recoil as well, especially suppressed. It was easy to maintain control over the pistol.At 100 yards, the Banshee clustered 10 DoubleTap 160-grain TAC-XP +P rounds into a fist-sized group. This load is typically a handful out of a 5-inch-barreled 1911 at 1,200 fps, but with the Banshee AR Pistol, you barely notice the recoil—another advantage to this platform.

Banshee Function & Fire

The pistol’s reliability was excellent suppressed or not. With the brace hooked around my forearm, the Banshee cycled everything without issue. The brace was also helpful because I have wide, short forearms but could find the right fit. Other braces with fixed lengths are just about useless to me. That wasn’t the case here. It was also easy to keep the brace locked into my bicep, and when that occasional inadvertent shouldering occurred, my nose didn’t get smacked by the charging handle.

The only Glock 21 magazines in inventory were OEM 13-rounders, and they all worked perfectly. I had no issues seating full magazines, although it took some solid pressure to do so. Yet, when I pressed the magazine release, the magazines all dropped free, and the Banshee’s bolt locked open after firing the last round. The Banshee’s versatility would only increase with larger aftermarket magazines.

Lasting Impressions

Cleaning the Banshee AR Pistol is just like an AR. The bolt carrier takes down the same way, but it’s spring loaded, so keep track of the extra parts. The pistol uses a standard carbine “H” buffer and spring. It all stayed pretty clean, but pistol powders are often dirty, so just keep the Banshee oiled and wipe it down periodically when using a suppressor. Through several hundred rounds, I oiled it a couple times and didn’t experience a single failure.

The more I use pistol-caliber ARs, the more I like them. I guess you can call me a slow and somewhat reluctant convert. Because the controls are standard AR, these guns are perfect practice weapons that use much less expensive ammunition. They’re also a fantastic way to get your kids involved in target shooting since they lack the oppressive blast of the rifle calibers and have very little recoil.

If you don’t want a rifle for home or vehicle defense, these guns offer a number of advantages, especially in states where rifles are all but outlawed or cannot be carried in vehicles outside of the trunk. CMMG’s Banshee line adds some great choices to this ever-growing segment of the firearms world. If you are looking for an AR pistol, make sure these are on your list.

For more information, visit cmmginc.com.

CMMG MkG Banshee AR Pistol Specifications

• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Barrel: 5 inches
• OA Length: 20 inches
• Weight: 4.7 pounds (empty)
• Grip: Magpul MOE
• Sights: None
• Action: Blowback-operated semi-auto
• Finish: Burnt Bronze Cerakote
• Capacity: 13+1
• MSRP: $1,249.95

This article is from the 2019 issue of Black Guns magazine. Grab your copy at OutdoorGroupStore.com.

The post GUN TEST: CMMG MkG Banshee AR Pistol in .45 ACP appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Since 2008, the Steyr SSG 08 has been considered one of the best sniper rifles available at any price and one of the most accurate factory rifles ever made. For users who didn’t need the gun’s superb aluminum folding stock, Steyr Mannlicher designed the SSG 04, which offered the same barreled action on an adjustable fiber-reinforced stock. The gun lost some of its ergonomics and glamor, but its legendary accuracy was unscathed.

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Steyr then recognized some aficionados and small law enforcement agencies needed an accurate SSG-type rifle at an even more affordable price. So the company introduced the Pro THB (Tactical Heavy Barrel). This fantastic rifle is priced competitively with other varmint and tactical rifles from American manufacturers but adds many of the advanced SSG 08 features in a lighter, simpler design.

Now Steyr is offering a new Pro THB in 6.5 Creedmoor with either a short 20-MOA Picatinny rail over the action or with a longer rail. I got my hands on the latter for testing, and it’s a killer package for long-range hunters, Precision Rifle Series (PRS) shooters and many tactical units.

Solid Foundation

Like the famous SSG 08 and SSG 04, the Steyr Pro THB is based on the Safe Bolt System (SBS) action, which is one of the safest rifle operating systems ever designed. If the gun fires an over-pressured cartridge, or there’s an obstruction in the barrel, the shooter will remain protected while the rifle contains the detonation by its safety bushing. In my opinion, this is part of what makes the SBS the most advanced bolt system on the market. The safety bushing fully encases the four bolt lugs and the extractor, essentially protecting the shooter from escaping gases and preventing the receiver from rupturing.

The four front locking lugs are massive. They’re directly behind the cartridge case inside the receiver. The bolt body has grooves that will collect dirt and debris to guarantee reliability during the most extreme conditions. After reviewing these features, reminding folks that all Steyr rifles have a protruding cocking indicator in the bolt or that the bolt lever retracts and locks into the receiver seems unimportant. You can choose between a thin bolt handle or the more common round knob, and I received the latter for testing.

Steyr Pro THB: Packed With Features

You’d need a pen and paper to list all of the features that set the SBS action apart from Remington clones. Normally, rifles have two-position safeties, but not this Austrian tack-driver. The new “2+1” safety, operated by a wheel on the tang, lets you select various modes of safety and operation. In the “safe” position, the weapon can be loaded and unloaded, and the trigger is locked, which prevents accidental discharges. When you’re ready to engage the target, just roll the safety wheel noiselessly forward to the “fire” position, and the rifle will be ready to shoot. If you decide not to engage, you can rotate the wheel to the “lock” position, in which a button on the safety wheel prevents it from rolling into any other position. The trigger and bolt are locked.

The SBS has one more hidden trick in this locked position: You can depress the bolt lever into a position closer to the stock so it protrudes less. This also locks the firing pin and sets the action apart from the competition when it comes to stalking prey. There’s no protruding bolt lever to get tangled, yet you can noiselessly disengage the safety and shoot when needed. I use this feature on my SSG 08 all the time, and it’s very convenient.

The Barrel

Steyr has done its best to bring its unique cold-hammer-forged barrels to this price range, as the Pro THB shares the famous barrel used in the SSG 08, with the same distinctive spiral forging marks on the exterior. These barrels are known for being accurate and reliable while lasting for a very long time.

The .308 Winchester Pro THB is available with a 16-, 20- or 26-inch barrel, but my 6.5 Creedmoor test rifle came with a 26-inch barrel sporting a 1-in-8-inch twist rate, which is good for long-range shooting. The muzzle has right-hand, 5/8×24-tpi threading to accept most American-made brakes and suppressors.

In my opinion, the most efficient barrels for 6.5 Creedmoor rifles are between 24 and 26 inches long, so the chosen barrel length was perfect for me. The 1-in-8-inch twist rate fits my bullet selections fine and suits heavy 140- to 143-grain bullets, but it will also let me shoot 120-grain Nosler AccuBonds if I need to. Also, I believe in over-stabilizing projectiles for long-range shooting, so this faster twist rate is consistent with my experience for long-range success.

One note about the barrel profile: Years ago Steyr engineers used the SSG 08 profile to demonstrate that they could get heavy-barrel performance with medium-heavy barrels like this one, which has a muzzle diameter of 0.8 inches. I thought it was “skinny” at first glance but was wrong.

Elite Ergonomics

Although most shooters might think they don’t need it, I recommend getting the long rail for the Steyr Pro THB, even though the standard 20-MOA short rail is capable. I say this because you can easily convert the Pro THB to a heavy scout configuration with a forward-mounted Aimpoint Micro H-2 sight.

This Picatinny rail is a piece of art far above its price range. It’s CNC-machined from aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum, which is light and much sturdier than any composite unit. Attention to detail is Steyr’s trademark, and all THB scope rails—short and long—are installed with six 6-48 screws, ensure top-notch rigidity.

The shorter side rails up front are minimalistic and detachable. The side rails on Steyr’s modern tactical rifles are machined to fit into a recessed channel so the load is on the edge of the rail, not on the screws. This feature will be welcomed by many snipers and hunters who tend to place heavy accessories like laser designators on their side rails. You won’t see the screws shear here, as you might with other rifle designs.

The stock is a fine polymer model with a straight comb. It has an aluminum bedding block to improve the action’s stability and support while preventing the action screws from flexing. The length of pull is 13.75 inches, but it can easily be adjusted with spacers. The cheek is not adjustable. The stock feels nice, with a flat front that will help in shooting over various supports, but it comes with two quick-detach (QD) sling attachment points that I would have replaced with push-button sockets. That might be a matter of preference, but for me, it meant changing the sling ends.

Magazine Features

The synthetic magazine holds four rounds, and you can use rounds with overall lengths up to 3.148 inches. Most reloaders who want to use the latest 6.5 Creedmoor bullets will appreciate this extra space. There is also an extension kit so 10-round magazines can be used.

Another unique feature on the Steyr Pro THB and SSG sniper rifles is the two-stage magazine-latch mechanism, with a first stage that locks the magazine in but allows you to load rounds or operate the bolt without feeding from the magazine. With one more little push on the bottom of the magazine, it will seat it in the second stage, which is ready for autoloading.

The triggerguard is part of the stock, and it’s big enough for gloved use. The trigger has a nice, crisp, 2.8-pound pull and looks to be adjustable, even though it comes with white locking compound to preclude user adjustments. Finally, as with most Steyrs, the rifle has a durable, rust-proof Mannox finish that I really like.

Laser Accurate

At the range, it became clear that the Steyr Pro THB is superbly accurate for any standard. I shot about 160 rounds with three different loads: Nosler’s 140-grain Ballistic Tips as well as Hornady’s 140-grain Match ELDs and 143-grain ELD-Xs.

After eye bore-sighting the gun the old-fashioned way—part of my standard zeroing procedure—I shot one round, which impacted up 1.25 MOA and 1 MOA to the right. After 10 clicks down and eight clicks left on the 7-40x56mm Leupold VX-6 scope I used, I was dead-center on the target. That made me smile, as I knew the rifle would be a shooter. And I wasn’t wrong, as the three commercial loads mostly created sub-MOA groups, with many tighter than 0.5 MOA. This is very impressive for a new rifle.

Although this rifle shoots impressively well, another unexpected finding shocked me. The Hornady loads had basically the same trajectory at most medium hunting distances, and the Nosler load was just there, too. Adding to that interesting result, the three loads printed inside a 1-MOA circle with the same 100-meter scope zero. I’m starting to fall in love with the 6.5 Creedmoor and how well it shoots in this Steyr, and I hope to make it my primary hunting rifle for hunting small animals that don’t require a lot of energy on impact. No wonder the 6.5 Creedmoor has taken the PRS and varmint market by storm. It makes the shooter’s life easy—very easy.

Final Thoughts

The Steyr Pro THB rifle is full of features—so much that I’m sure you will have to reread the article to really grasp all of them. It shares many of the SSG 08’s features, including its second-to-none accuracy. It’s also light enough for hunting and heavy enough for tactical use, and the only compromise has been the cheek height with the long rail. That’s a small price to pay to get this level of accuracy and features at this price range. This particular rifle will soon become my primary hunting 6.5 Creedmoor. That’s how much I like it.

For more information, visit steyr-arms.com.

Steyr Pro THB Specifications

• Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
• Barrel: 26 inches
• OA Length: 45.2 inches
• Weight: 9.3 pounds (empty)
• Stock: Synthetic
• Sights: None
• Action: Bolt
• Finish: Mannox
• Capacity: 4+1
• MSRP: N/A

This article ran in the August-September issue of Tactical-Life magazine. Grab your copy at OutdoorGroupStore.com.

The post GUN TEST: The Deadly Accurate Steyr Pro THB in 6.5 Creedmoor appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Steyr and Col. Jeff Cooper introduced the first production Scout Rifle to the world at the 1998 SHOT Show, and for more than a decade, Steyr hasn’t introduced a new chambering in the Scout Rifle platform. That is until now, as Steyr recently announced the debut of the Scout 6.5 Creedmoor.

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Throughout his decades of development of the scout-rifle concept, including the nearly decade-long collaborative design process to create the Steyr Scout, Cooper was very specific in his chambering choices for his ultimate production scout rifle.

Cooper also demanded the rifle be able to knock down any North American game, and he wanted the ammunition to be readily available. While the 6.5 Creedmoor debuted after Cooper had already passed, today it stands as one of the top cartridge choices and is plentiful.

“It can’t be said that Col. Cooper wasn’t a fan of the 6.5 mm, as he wrote about the 6.5 Mannlicher Schoenauer rather longingly,” said Scott O’Brien, Steyr Arms, USA, CEO. “But Col. Cooper never could have expected the amazing performance of the 6.5 Creedmoor, nor could he expect the widespread availability of such a round.”

Scout 6.5 Creedmoor Rifle Attributes

Steyr and Cooper began collaborating on a production Scout Rifle around 1990. Steyr engineers worked within his limitations to produce a rifle that was less than a meter in length, less than about 7 pounds. Also, it had to be able to take anything in North America from hare to bear. Steyr engineers provided his desired backup “ghost-ring” iron sights that rest snugly within the Steyr Scout’s profile and can be deployed within seconds should the optics fail. They also provided two-stage magazines that could accomplish the same function as the 1903 Springfield’s magazine cutoff but in a much faster manner than the original.

Just like the original Steyr Scout, the 6.5 CM version incorporates a spare magazine in the stock. Also, it has the ability to accept a pair of optional 10-round magazines. The stock also incorporates an integrated bipod, as well as a set of five whale-tail sling-swivel attachments. Moreover, the attachments accommodate a three-point Ching Sling on either side of the stock.

“We can never know how the Colonel would have felt about chambering his rifle in the 6.5 Creedmoor, but considering its performance and after extensive testing, we think he’d wholeheartedly approve,” O’Brien said.

The Steyr Arms Scout 6.5 Creedmoor has a 19-inch cold hammer forged barrel. Also, it is fluted and threaded to accept 1/2-20 RH muzzle devices. It is now available in Black, MUD and OD Green stocks with an MSRP of $1,735.

For more information, visit steyr-arms.com/us.

The post Steyr Arms Introduces the Scout 6.5 Creedmoor Rifle appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Ruger announced the release of two new magnum models to the popular Precision Rimfire line of rifles. The new additions include .17 HMR and .22 WMR loadings. Additionally, Ruger adds a new BX-15 Magnum magazine to support the new high-performance chamberings. Moreover, the two loads bring greater performance to the much-heralded line, delivering faster, flatter performing bullets to the precision-based platform.

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Ruger Precision Rimfire Features

Each Ruger Precision Rimfire utilizes a molded, one-piece chassis and adjustable buttstock assembly. Also, the Quick-Fit stock enables quick adjustments to the rifle’s length of pull and comb height. Moreover, those adjustments accommodate shooting positions, outer wear and individual shooter sizes.

The heart of the rifle is an 18-inch cold hammer-forged target model. Additionally, the barrel utilizes ultra-precise rifling according to Ruger. Also, a 1/2″x28 muzzle thread pattern accommodates a variety of muzzle devices.

A 15-inch free-float Magpul M-Lok handguard provides sufficient scope clearance and accessory mounting options. Meanwhile, the Big-Gun bolt throw adjustment enables shooters to convert to a long bolt throw when using as a trainer for large-caliber bolt guns.

The rifle also features the Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger, with an adjustment range of 2.25 to 5 pounds. Additionally, a 0 MOA Picatinny rail tops the receiver, while and AR-pattern pistol grip and safety selector provide familiar feel and controls.

The new magnum models of the Precision Rimfire ship with one 15-round BX-15 Magnum magazine. The new magazine also utilizes the same feed lip geometry from previous models. Moreover, it is compatible with Ruger 77/17, 77/22 and American Rimfire models in .17 HMR and .22 WMR. Finally, the magazine’s stainless steel feed lips, spring and anti-til follower combine to create a rugged, reliable mag, according to Ruger.

For more information on the entire line of Precision Rimfire rifles, visit ruger.com.

The post Ruger Introduces Magnum Models to Precision Rimfire Line appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

The past year marked a truly remarkable one in rifles, seemingly of every type and configuration. While some companies pushed the envelope of innovation, others blended top-end components to deliver quality, affordable options.

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From the continued rise of the 6.5 Creedmoor, to POF’s aptly-named Revolution that forever changes how we look at .308-sized rifles, there’s never been a better time to purchase a rifle.

And rifles are different. For those that embrace being a rifleman, they become a part of us. For when we find a truly great rifle, it garners a special place in our heart, as well a spot in the front of the safe.

Because we use it often, become exceedingly familiar, and ultimately depend on it, whether it be tactical or hunting, duty or sport. A truly great rifle does all of that and more.

So check out our list for this year’s best, and maybe you will find your next great rifle.

Performance Center T/C LRR

When comparing accuracy and cost, a high lever of the former generally leads to a high amount of the latter. However, the Performance Center T/C LRR pleasantly surprises in that analysis. Even though the price is right compared to other precision models, the accuracy doesn’t suffer one bit.

A match-grade rifle, the LRR is guaranteed to shoot 1 MOA at 100 yards. Moreover, chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, it maintains quality features, including 24-inch heavy fluted barrel, 20 MOA Picatinny rail and adjustable trigger.

Better still, the Performance Center T/C LRR retails for $1,211.

For more information, visit tcarms.com.

FN SCAR 20S

Based on the U.S. military’s MK20 Sniper Support Rifle (SSR), the FN SCAR 20S is a civilian-legal variant that really shines at long range.

The FN SCAR 20S features a 20-inch barrel, Geissele Super SCAR trigger, adjustable stock, ambidextrous controls and reversible charging handle. Also, the barrel exhibits a taper to accommodate the SureFire FA762SS sound suppressor.

“Most of us that enjoy or use the SCAR 17S have been badgering FN for some version of the MK20 SSR since it was introduced,” Dave Bahde wrote in his review. “I got to run one during a closed media event and quickly joined that crowd. So I’m glad the SCAR 20S is finally here! It might not be for everyone with an MSRP of $4,499, but it’s an exceptional rifle that might just be the perfect SCAR to own.

For more information, visit fnamerica.com.

Mossberg MVP Precision Rifle

The Mossberg MVP Precision, the latest edition to the popular MVP line, stands as a truly affordable, yet quality precision bolt gun. Equally worthy for long-range tactical or competition work, the MVP Precision is available in .308 Win. and 6.5 Creedmoor.

The MVP Precision features a 20 MOA rail, M-Lok handguards, and sports a 24-inch button rifled barrel complete with 5R rifling. The LBA trigger adjusts from 3-7 pounds. Meanwhile, a Luth-AR MBA-3 stock provides versatility in adjustments.

“If you are looking at getting into the precision rifle competition world, need an affordable duty rifle or just want to reach out to longer ranges, add the Mossberg MVP Precision to your list; it may be just about perfect,” said Bahde in his review.

Above all, with a MSRP of $1,407, and actual prices often much lower, the MVP Precision is a winner.

For more information, visit mossberg.com.

Wilson Combat Ultralight Hunter 300 HAM’R

In his piece for the upcoming winter 2019 issue of Ballistic Magazine, writer Terrill Hoffman says, “In my humble opinion, the development of the 300 HAM’R has finally allowed the AR-15 to reach its maximum potential.”

According to Wilson Combat: “300 HAM’R ballistics even meet or exceed the ballistics of the famed 30-30 rifle cartridge with bullets in the 110-130 grain range.”

The Ultralight Hunter features a lightweight billet upper and lower receiver, paired with an Ultralight Hunter Match Grade barrel. Additionally, an intermediate gas system and adjustable gas block highlight the package. The rifle retails for $3,295.

For more information, visit wilsoncombat.com.

SIG M400 Tread

Though technically an entry model, we were impressed with everything the SIG Sauer M400 Tread brings to bear. Moreover, with proven components and an affordable price tag, the M400 Tread is sure to be a hit among AR-15 fans.

“The SIG M400 Tread is a top choice for any AR connoisseur no matter if its your first rifle or 10th,” said Todd Burgreen in his review. “Performance combined with price — it can be found starting around $799 in stores — is the quickest way to appeal to the shooting public. The M400 Tread will have no problem proving its worth.”

The MSRP for the SIG M400 Tread is $951.

For more information, visit sigsauer.com.

POF Revolution DI

Last year, POF shocked the industry with its award-winning, piston-driven .308 Revolution rifle. Well now they’re back at it again, taking the same approach to putting a .308 rifle in an AR-15-sized package, only this time in a direct impingement system.

The Revolution DI in .308 weighs a mere 6.81 pounds with a 16-inch barrel. Meanwhile, the 6.5 Creedmoor model, sporting a 20-inch barrel, weighs 8.6 pounds. The company’s nine-position Dictator gas block and Renegade rail complete the smallest .308 AR on the market.

For more information, visit pof-usa.com.

Ruger PC Carbine

One of the fastest growing segments in the industry remains the pistol caliber carbine, and Ruger’s latest entry into the field should make Ruger fans happy. The Ruger PC Carbine exhibits traits familiar to Ruger owners. Meanwhile, the line delivers smart versatility.

Arguably the greatest feature is the interchangeable magazine wells, giving users the option of switching between Ruger SR9 or Glock-pattern magazines. Since most of the pistol caliber carbine accessory world centers on Glock, this is a welcome feature. However, for those with multiple Ruger guns, both SR9 and Security-9 magazines can be used.

Featuring takedown capability, the Ruger PC Carbine makes for an excellent pack or truck gun. With a reversible charging handle and magazine release, the gun can be setup for user preference.

The Ruger PC Carbine retails for $649.

For more information, visit ruger.com.

RISE Armament 200LE & 300LE

Chambered in .223 Wylde and 300 BLK, the Rise Armament Watchman LE line features a 7075-forged aluminum upper and lower receiver. A 16.1-inch 416R stainless steel, match-grade barrel utilizes a 1:7 twist.

“It handled nicely and put the rounds exactly where I wanted them to go. RISE’s triggers are something special; it pulled smoothly and broke nicely,” said Mitch Hardin in his review. “I was only able to send a few magazines down range with the 300LE. However, based on my limited time with it, this rifle is a real contender.”

For more information, visit risearmament.com.

DoubleStar ZERO Carbine

The DoubleStar Zero Carbine attempts to find the perfect balance of accuracy, weight and durability. As such, it features a 16-inch barrel, M-Lok handguard, Alpha Compensator and rubber over-molded Ergo grip. An Ace SOCOM rounds out the package.

“The phrase ‘everything you need with nothing you don’t’ comes to mind,” said Graham Baates in his review. “The ZERO carbine has the right amount of features while still freeing up space; you know, space in the safe after it replaces a few of those overly specialized builds that just never seem to have a good use.”

The DoubleStar Zero Carbine retails for $1,479. For more information, visit star15.com.

Steyr THB 6.5 Creedmoor

The Steyr Pro THB, packed full of professional-grade features, delivers lethal accuracy in 6.5 Creedmoor. As such, it simply dominates at extended ranges. The Pro THB features a rugged stock design, complete with spacers that enable adjustment for length of pull. A 26.6-inch barrel and 9.3-pound weight steadies the gun for long-range shooting.

“The Steyr Pro THB rifle is full of features—so much that I’m sure you will have to reread the article to really grasp all of them,” said Eduardo Abril De Fontcuberta in his review. “It shares many of the SSG 08’s features, including its second-to-none accuracy. It’s also light enough for hunting and heavy enough for tactical use, and the only compromise has been the cheek height with the long rail. That’s a small price to pay to get this level of accuracy and features at this price range. This particular rifle will soon become my primary hunting 6.5 Creedmoor. That’s how much I like it.”

The Steyr Pro THB retails for $1,595. For more information, visit steyr-arms.com.

The post Down Range: Tactical Life’s 10 Best Rifles From 2018 appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Silver Shadow recently announced that the company is manufacturing and shipping the long-awaited double-barreled DBR Snake in .223 Rem. Several videos and promotions about the unique AR-style platform caused much curiosity over the last few years, and now the rifles are being produced in the U.S.

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Gilboa DBR Snake Features

While the rifle looks unique, Silver Shadow claims the Gilboa DBR Snake features 100-percent commonality with traditional AR-15s. Moreover, the company utilizes CNC machining processes and state-of-the-art equipment to produce an improved chassis, according to Silver Shadow.

“It’s a fun gun to shoot, almost no one has it, it looks bad-ass and everybody at the range will want to try it,” said Micky Shoham, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Silver Shadow. “It also never jams as there are two separate systems.”

Various distributors and dealers will carry the rife. Further, the next batch is expected to ship sometime in February, according to Silver Shadow.

The company also announced recently that it would be displaying product again this year at the upcoming SHOT Show in Las Vegas.

Israeli retired Lt. Col. Amos Golan, a former senior officer and Commander of Special Units of the Israel Defense Forces, founded Silver Shadow in 1995. The company also made headlines with its Corner Shot, a tactical platform that enables law enforcement or military personnel to observe and engage threats around a corner or obstacle. The system adapts to fit Glock, Sig, and Beretta pistols, as well as select rifle platforms.

For more information, visit gilboa-rifle.cornershot.com.

Gilboa DBR Snake Specifications

• Caliber: .223 Rem.
• Method of Operation: Gas Impingement
• Overall Weight: 4.90 kg
• Overall Length: 790mm
• Barrel Length: 11.5 inches
• Firing Mode: Semi-auto
• MSRP: $2,419

The post Silver Shadow Now Manufacturing, Shipping Gilboa DBR Snake appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Barrett Firearms Manufacturing recently announced its newest, contract-winning firearm: The Barrett REC10. The U.S. military selected the REC10 as a medium caliber, long-range rifle. The REC10 is now available in .308 Win., making it equally suitable for duty or sport.

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“We’ve been working on the REC10 behind-the-scenes for more than two years,” said Chris Barrett, President, Barrett Firearms. “Before we bring a rifle to market, we have to know it meets the standards of the most demanding users in the world – the armed forces. Winning this contract further confirms, we’ve done our job.”

Barrett spent years of extensive engineering and exhaustive testing to produce the REC10 family of rifles. Moreover, the company claims it has perfected the semi-automatic .308 rifle, guaranteeing reliability, durability and accuracy.

Barrett REC10 Features

Living up to the Barrett name, the REC10 is built to withstand the demands of combat. Further, Barrett claims the REC10 features an optimized direct impingement gas system, one enabling both suppressed and unsuppressed fire. REC10 upper and lower receivers are machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum. Each rifle also features full ambidextrous controls. Additionally, a slimline free-float aluminum handguard utilizes M-Lok attachment slots. Finally, a full-length Picatinny top rail provides a mounting option for sights and electro-optics.

Tactical Life first broke news of the new REC10 after getting range time with a pre-production model at the 2017 Athlon Outdoor Rendezvous:

“Running the REC10 at the Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous, it was accurate with Barrett’s proven reliability. Incredibly light, it points well and allowed for hits on steel at 100 yards and further using the iron sights,” wrote Dave Bahde in his initial review. “If you are in the market for a premium rifle from a proven builder, you’ll want to hold out for the Barrett REC10.”

Then in the February/March 2018 issue of “Tactical Weapons,” Fred Mastison wrote:

“In the end, the Barrett REC10 has the potential to set the standard in AR-10-style rifles. This is not just an off-the-cuff statement but one based on knowing what Barrett has accomplished in the past. Chris Barrett said it best when he told me that the REC10 has ‘Barrett DNA infused into a .308 platform’ and that he is very proud Barrett rifles are ‘rifles that the hardest users in the world trust.’ The REC10 is a solid weapon that is certain to change the semi-auto .308 world.”

REC10 Prize Package

The REC10 makes its official debut Jan. 22 at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas. To honor it debut, Barrett is giving away a complete REC10 system, complete with industry-leading components and accessories. The prize package is worth more than $7,500.

For more information, visit Barret.net/REC10.

The post Long-Awaited Barrett REC10 Set to Debut at SHOT Show appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Retay Arms, of Konya, Turkey, recently announced the company would debut the Masai Mara SP 3.5 at the upcoming SHOT Show in Las Vegas. Moreover, the shotgun, previously manufactured in 2 3/4 and 3-inch models, utilizes the company’s Inertia Plus rotating bolt system.

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Retay bills the Inertia Plus as an upgrade to the original Bruno Civolani design, which Benelli purchased and built its successful shotgun lines upon. Moreover, Retay received a U.S. patent for its rotating bolt head system this past June. Also, the patent recognizes Retay’s “innovation of a rotating bolt head system that prevents the unintended unlocking of the bolt head from the breach of a firearm,” according to Retay.

Retay Arms Inertia Plus System

According to a company press release, the Inertia Plus System offers several advantages:

“The Retay Inertia Plus System is capable of effectively cycling lightweight and low recoil shotgun shells as well as heavy hunting loads and eliminates misfires by ensuring the system’s rotating bolt locks into the battery with the chamber under all conditions, while at the same time preventing unintended disengagement.”

Aside from the Inertia System, Marsai Mara shotguns also feature the company’s proprietary Removable Trigger System (RTS). Built from milled aluminum, the system is also designed for quick, easy assembly and disassembly, according to Retay.

Barrel lengths include 24, 26, 28 and 30 inches. An MM Extra Black SP model, with black synthetic stock, retails for $1,200. Meanwhile, five camouflage patterns are available, each retailing for $1,399.

While the Marsai Mara upgrades to the bigger 3.5-inch model this year, the company also lists other models in the works. According to the Retay website, a Turkey XT, Warden and Warden 3G version are coming soon. The Warden is billed as a defensive model, while the 3G model is designed for 3-Gun competition.

For more information, visit retayusa.com.

Retay Marsai Mara SP Specifications

• Gauge: 12
• Chamber: 2 3/4, 3 and 3 1/2 inches
• Action: Retay Inertia System with Inertia Plus Locking System
• Overall Barrel Lengths: 24, 26, 28 and 30 inches
• Rib: 8mm
• Recoil Pad: Sculpted, ergonomic Microcell Polyurethane
• Length of Pull: 14.37 inches
• Overall Weight: 7.1 pounds
• Frame: Aluminum, anodized or Cerakote finish
• Stock: Synthetic
• Sight: TruGlo Fiber Optic

The post Retay Arms Announces Release of Inertia Plus 3.5 appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

We got some trigger time with the Mossberg MMR Pro at last year’s Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous, and we came away impressed. Purpose-built for the sport of 3-Gun, the MMR Pro delivers an out-of-the-box, match-ready rifle. Moreover, accurate and affordable, this rifle will serve well as a ranch or truck gun, or for simply fun shooting at the range.

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Upgraded features begin with an adjustable drop-in trigger designed by renowned 3-Gun champion Jerry Miculek. Also, with a crisp, creep-free break, the adjustment ranges from 3 to 6 pounds. The JM Pro Adjustable Match Trigger fits all standard AR-15 and AR-10 lowers, utilizing a .154-inch trigger and hammer pin holes. Additionally, the trigger adjusts for overtravel. Moreover, the unit is available as an aftermarket accessory as well.

The rifle sports an 18-inch, 416 stainless steel barrel. It also comes with a SilencerCo 3-port muzzlebrake that is compatible with suppressors. Additionally, Mossberg’s own 15-inch slim-profile forend utilizes M-LOK attachment. A full-length top rail also provides additional mounting surface.

Mossberg upgraded several components on the MMR Pro, including the charging handle. The also rifle comes standard with an AXS Raptor ambidextrous model, adding to its versatility.

Finally, a six-position stock includes Mossberg’s FLEX System recoil pad. The FLEX includes three interchangeable pads, in differing thicknesses, giving even more range in length-of-pull adjustments.

For more information, visit mossberg.com.

Mossberg MMR Pro Specifications

• Caliber: 5.56mm NATO/.223 Rem.
• Capacity: 30+1
• Barrel Length: 18 inches
• Twist: 1:8
• LOP Type: Adjustable
• LOP: 11-14.25 inches
• Barrel Finish: Stainless Steel
• Stock Finish: 6-position adjustable, synthetic
• Overall Length: 35.75 inches
• MSRP: $1,393

The post WATCH: How Fast Is the 5.56mm NATO Mossberg MMR Pro Rifle? appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Remington unveiled its latest rendition of one of its most popular rifles earlier this year with the debut of the Model Seven Threaded Kuiu. As such, the distinctive Kuiu Vias camouflage pattern gives a new look to Remington’s classic lightweight sporting rifle.

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The Model Seven Threaded Kuiu comes in two different chamberings, .308 Win. and 300 BLK. Nearly identical variants, the 300 BLK delivers one additional round in capacity; both rifles retail for $795.

Model Seven Threaded Features

Each Model Seven threaded utilizes a hinged floor plate design.

The cylindrical receiver, bolt face and barrel maintain Remington’s “three-rings-of-steel” concept, making the Model Seven a strong rifle. Also, a consistent bedding area and encased cartridge head remain staples of the platform.

A hallmark of the Model Seven is its compact design, coming in 2 3/8 inches shorter than the company’s flagship Model 700 bolt-action rifle. That shorter length and lightweight design makes the Model Seven well suited to smaller shooters. Moreover, it remains a great choice for use in tight quarters, such as woods hunting.

The Model Seven Threaded utilizes Remington’s X-Mark Pro trigger, which is externally adjustable. Further, a SuperCell Recoil Pad aids in soaking up felt recoil, a welcome feature on a lightweight rifle.

For more information, visit remington.com.

Remington Model Seven Threaded Specifications

• Calibers: .308 Win., 300 BLK
• Magazine Capacity: 4 (.308 Win.), 5 (300 BLK)
• Overall Barrel Length: 16 1/2 inches
• Twist: 10 (.308 Win.), 7 (300 BLK)
• Overall Length: 34 1/4 inches
• Overall Length of Pull: 13 3/8 inches
• Barrel Material: Carbon Steel
• Barrel Finish: Matte Blue
• Stock Material: Synthetic
• MSRP: $795

The post FIRST LOOK: Remington Model Seven Threaded Kuiu appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

RISE Armament recently announced it had reached an agreement to provide its Watchman law enforcement rifles to the Broken Arrow Police Department in Oklahoma. Moreover, the Watchman, chambered in .223 Wylde, will outfit the department’s Special Operations Team.

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“We’re proud to provide our officers with RISE Armament rifles,” said Sergeant Brad Klingenberg, Broken Arrow Police Department Special Operations Team Commander. “We are impressed with the rifles’ quality and the engineering behind them. They’re real tack drivers, and the price makes them an incredible value.”

RISE Armament built the Watchman exclusively for law enforcement use. Additionally, the company wanted to supply officers with a “supremely accurate, highly dependable rifle.”

Moreover, it also had to be “affordable on a law enforcement budget.”  As such, RISE sought input from special units, officers, military, competitive shooters and firearm instructors.

RISE Armament Watchman Features

Two different models are available, in .223 Wylde or 300 BLK. Also, each rifle utilizes a RISE advanced flash hider, a four-pronged unit designed to minimize flash in low light. Moreover, the Watchman features forged upper and lower receivers, an LE145 Tactical Trigger, ambidextrous safety and RISE LE M-LOK handguard. Also, the rifle includes a 416R stainless steel barrel and black nitride-coated bolt carrier group. Finally, a Magpul pistol grip and CTR stock round out the package.

“RISE Armament’s number-one mission is to make a lasting difference,” said Chris Stratton, Sales Director at RISE Armament. “We launched our law enforcement division to make sure officers and citizens are better protected, so we’re honored we’re able to make that impact so quickly in Broken Arrow, our own community.”

The Watchman rifle kicks off a new initiative from the company: RISE LE. Further, the new division “focuses on designing, engineering, and manufacturing firearms and other products that meet the specific demands of law enforcement units across the country,” according to a RISE Armament release.

For more information, visit risearmament.com.

The post Oklahoma Police Department Chooses RISE Armament Watchman appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Palmetto State Armory (PSA) recently announced the release of its newest AK-based firearm, the AK-V pistol. Moreover, chambered in 9mm, the AK-V utilizes CZ Scorpion-style magazines.

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The PSA AK-V is modeled after a gun designed for Russian Special Forces, according to Palmetto State Armory. The now-disbanded unit sought a compact sub-gun for operational use.

The AK-V is designed to run with a range of ammunition, both suppressed and unsuppressed. Also, the pistol utilizes a blowback operating system and features a last round hold open. Along with CZ Scorpion mags, the pistol also runs with PSA’s own 35-round mag that retails for $19.99.

The controls and pistol frame should be familiar to AK users. However, PSA included upgrades such as rail attachments and an SB Tactical SBA3 Brace.

The SBA3 stock provides five-position adjustability. Also, the unit includes 7075 mil-spec carbine receiver extension, as well as an integral, ambidextrous QD sling socket. Moreover, the SBAE meets all ATF qualifications for a pistol brace.

For more information, visit palmettostatearmory.com.

Palmetto State Armory AK-V Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm
• Receiver: Stamped Steel
• Bolt Carrier: Forged
• Front Trunnion: Forged
• Barrel: 10.5-inch Nitrided 4150 Steel
• Twist: 1:10
• Muzzle Brake: 2 port, Tanker Style
• Rail: Picatinny top
• Sights: Fixed Rear
• Fire Control Group: Single-Stage
• MSRP: N/A

The post FIRST LOOK: Palmetto State Armory AK-V 9mm Pistol appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.